Rugby arrived in Samoa through missionaries and schools in the early 20th century, but Samoans took to the game immediately. Today rugby is played in almost every village, school and community. Children learn the basics from a very young age, passing and chasing on the grass in bare feet.
Manu Samoa is famous for their incredible physical strength, skill, and fearless style of play. Many Samoan players go on to represent other countries — including New Zealand, Australia and England — because so many Samoans live and work abroad. But representing the blue of Manu Samoa is seen as a great honour.
The Samoa rugby team perform a traditional 'siva tau' before each international match — a war-like chant and dance (similar to the Haka) that is performed facing the opposition. Players slam their chests, stamp their feet, and shout with great energy. The siva tau is a moment of pure pride in Samoan identity and culture.